Hong Kong Temples

For many visitors, Hong Kong is a place to visit for world-class shopping, bustling city-life, and fun nightclubs. Many couples come for honeymoons or for exciting casino getaways. However, Hong Kong's temples are the real stars of the show, and they are underappreciated by many tourists who don't know about them beforehand. Make sure you know exactly what to look for, and you'll be able to enjoy the marvelous culture and history of the best Hong Kong temples.

Wong Tai Sin

Hong Kong is home to more than 600 temples, some of which are over 700 years old. These temples represent a variety of religions including Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Ancestor Worship. At different times of the year, certain temples become very important to the locals, and visitors come far and wide to see their beauty and take part in the many festivals and holidays. The most famous of Hong Kong's temples is Wong Tai Sin. It is heavily influenced by Chinese culture, and is modeled after a Chinese palace. For a little extra fun, learn about your future from one of the many fortunetellers who make the temple's surroundings their place of business.

Po Lin Monastery

Another famous temple you can't afford to miss is the Po Lin Monastery on Lantau Island. Built by three monks, it includes well-known cultural gems like the Great Hall of Treasure and the Hall of Ti-tsang Bodhisattva, which features an amazing 400-pound bronze statue.

Tin Hau

Before you make the trip to Hong Kong, it might be in your best interest to brush up on your knowledge of deities. Tin Hau, for example, is the Goddess of the sea, as well as a source of safety and protection for sailors. Understandably, given the importance of the sea to Hong Kong, Tin Hau is one of the most revered deities, and there are more than 50 temples devoted to this deity. You may even want to consider scheduling your trip to coincide with the annual Tin Hau Festival.

Taoist Temples

If you're simply interested in seeing beautiful buildings, focus your attention on Taoist temples. Of the different Hong Kong's temples, they're the most colorful and intricately decorated. Worshippers add their own touch, leaving flowers and other splashes of color. And because the sights are so beautiful, you're most likely going to be tempted to snap a pic, but make sure to ask before you take pictures of anyone at these temples.

Chi Lin Nunnery

To see something especially unique, take a tour through the Chi Lin Nunnery. In the early 1990s, its buildings were remodeled after traditional Chinese architecture using ancient methods, meaning that it does not have any nails. This unique construction makes the Chi Lin buildings the only ones of their kind in Hong Kong.

When you visit, make sure you see some of the temples in Hong Kong. You won't be disappointed.

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